Tri Cities Airport

Overview

Port of Benton Airport, also known as Richland Airport, is a general aviation facility located in Richland, Washington. Unlike the nearby Tri-Cities Airport (PSC) in Pasco, which handles scheduled commercial flights, Port of Benton Airport caters primarily to private pilots, corporate aviation, flight training schools, and medical transport. It serves as a key gateway for business travellers and recreational flyers visiting the Tri-Cities region — a metropolitan area comprising Richland, Kennewick, and Pasco. The airport is owned and operated by the Port of Benton, a municipal corporation that also manages other regional transportation assets. Although it does not offer commercial airline service, Port of Benton Airport plays a vital role in supporting the local economy, particularly for the Hanford nuclear site, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, and the region's burgeoning wine industry.

Location & Access

The airport sits on the western edge of Richland, just south of State Route 240 and a few miles from the Columbia River. Its address is 3015 Terminal Drive, Richland, WA 99354. Access is straightforward by car: from Interstate 182, take the George Washington Way exit and head west until you reach the airport entrance. Parking is available in a wheelchair‑accessible car park directly in front of the terminal. For those arriving by other means, ride‑sharing services and taxis are the most reliable options, as public transit does not directly serve the airport. The nearest hotel cluster lies about two miles east on George Washington Way. If you need to connect to a commercial flight, Tri‑Cities Airport is roughly 20 minutes away via Interstate 182 and US 395.

Facilities

Port of Benton Airport provides the essential amenities a general aviation traveller would expect. The terminal building is modest but functional, with a waiting area, flight planning resources, and restrooms. Confirmed wheelchair‑accessible features include the car park, the entrance, and the toilets. General toilets are also available. There is no restaurant or café on site, though vending machines may be present. For fuel and aircraft servicing, pilots will find self‑serve and full‑serve options for both avgas and jet fuel — but this guide focuses on passenger experience, not aircraft operations. A small pilot lounge offers basic comfort while waiting. Overall, the airport is clean, well‑maintained, and designed for efficiency rather than leisure.

About the Region

Richland sits at the heart of the Tri‑Cities, a sun‑drenched area in southeastern Washington where the Columbia, Snake, and Yakima Rivers converge. The region is famous for the Hanford Site, a decommissioned nuclear production complex that now includes the Hanford Reach National Monument — a protected stretch of the Columbia River that offers hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Outdoor recreation abounds: the Sacagawea Heritage Trail connects the three cities along the river, ideal for cycling and walking. The area is also one of Washington’s premier wine regions, with over 200 wineries producing robust reds and crisp whites. Many visitors fly into Port of Benton Airport for wine tours, scientific conferences at the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, or to attend events at the Toyota Center in Kennewick.

Practical Information

The airport is not open 24 hours a day, and it is closed on certain days — likely weekends and major holidays. It is best to check the Port of Benton website or call ahead to confirm hours, especially if arriving outside typical business times. Peak activity occurs around 1:00 pm and 3:00 pm, suggesting a busy lunch‑time and afternoon schedule. For inquiries, call +1 509‑375‑3060. The official website provides forms, airport rules, and fuel pricing: https://portofbenton.com/our-properties-facilities/airports/richland-airport/. If you require special assistance, such as wheelchair service or help with luggage, contact the airport in advance — the confirmed accessible amenities indicate a commitment to serving all travellers, but staffing may be limited. Plan your ground transportation ahead, as the airport lacks a dedicated hotel shuttle or rental car counter (though off‑site rental agencies can deliver vehicles).